At our Annual General Meeting this year we welcomed 2 new members to the Steering Group, Sara Grimes from Bath & West Community Energy, and Jamie Oakey from Dorset Community Energy. We also thanked our founding member, Pete West from Energy Local Bridport, who is stepping down from the Steering Group this year after 8 years of service. Pete will still be participating in the network and has generously agreed to remain as Treasurer for the next year.
The AGM featured presentations and Q&A from 2 speakers:
Arabella Peatfield, from the South-West Net Zero Hub gave an update on the GB Energy funding, how to apply and what support is available.
Dr Rachel Coxcoon of Climate Guide introduced The Guide to Community Solar on Council Assets, highlighting how community energy groups can engage with Local Authorities.
We also invited attendees to vote on topics for future meetings, suggest other ideas and ways in which the network can help to support its members and grow the sector.
The recording, slides and other resources presented can be accessed via the links below.
Members of the Steering Group for 2026/27
| Cara Naden | Avalon Community Energy & Somerset Council |
| Vince Adams | Energise Stur Valley IPS |
| Alex Lockton | Zero North Wiltshire and Empowered |
| Helen Martin | Bristol Energy Cooperative |
| Iris Partridge | Resilience Network CIC |
| Sara Grimes | Bath & West Community Energy |
| Jamie Oakey | Dorset Community Energy |
